Tips: June 2006 Monthly archive
When starting your search for the most environmentally-friendly appliance, try Energy Star, a joint program between the EPA and the US Department of Energy that's focused on identifying energy-efficient products. Their logo is affixed to any qualified product that uses less energy, saves money, and protects the environment. You can search and compare all of these products on their website.
June 22, 2006 | Comments ()
In keeping with the first-day-of-summer theme, we know that many of you are planning to move so here are some tips to make your summer move as bearable as it can be. Please don't forget to drink lots of water as you can dehydrate before you realize it.
10 Tips to Help You Survive a Summer Move [NewsUSA]
June 21, 2006 | Comments ()
When using lumber remember to be aware that the "nominal size" that is typically referred to is different from the "actual size". For example a 2x4 is actually 1 1/2 x 3 1/2.
You can also refer to different grades and types of lumber here.
June 19, 2006 | Comments (1)
Dishwashers are one of the most heavily used household items but also one of the most misunderstood. Apply your DIY skills and with a little patience and know-how you can repair your own dishwasher and save the time and expense of calling in a repairman.
Also keep in mind these tips from Consumer Manual in regards to how much water you can save by using your dishwasher and what settings are most eco-friendly.
How to Fix The Most Common Problems Of Dishwashers [Pioneer Thinking]
June 19, 2006 | Comments ()
These lovely ladies seem to be enjoying the beginnings of their new addition and according to Homebasics you can be just as happy if you follow their recommended 5 "P's" during your remodel. You'll have a more peaceful experience and retain your sanity throughout.
Surviving the Home Renovation [Homebasics]
June 15, 2006 | Comments ()
Readymade's blog has a quick and easy way to clean your BBQ. It only takes a couple minutes and you can and should do this everytime before you cook.
Clean your BBQ [Readymade]
June 12, 2006 | Comments ()
It seems that there is no consensus in the proper way to deep clean carpets. What we do know is that a vacuum cleaner won't do the trick. When you need to properly remove mold, allergens, dust mites, and light stains, you should use a steamer. Steamers don't require the use of chemicals or cleaning agents although you may be asked to purchase them when renting the steamer. A proper steamer will heat the water to at least 240 degrees and this heat will emulsify grease and chemicals which are then removed by the cleaner. The heat will also kill dust mites and other organic bugs that you don't want in your carpets.
For deeper stains you should spot stain areas but beware of using chemicals as this can bleach carpet and create a more difficult problem to remove.
How to Deep-Clean Your Carpet [eHow.com]
Steam Cleaner FAQ [Allergy Consumer Review]
Top 6 Carpet Steam Cleaners [About.com]
June 9, 2006 | Comments (2)
When pulling longer nails such as framing nails or spikes, a standard sized hammer won't have the proper fulcrum length to pull the nail completely out and you may not have access to a cat's paw. But you can still remove a nail in one motion by inserting a block of wood beneath the head which raises the fulcrum point and allows the hammer to work more effectively and pull a nail straight out. We like to use a basic wooden meat tenderizer which has a handle and it is easier to place.
Another tip to protect your walls or flooring when pulling nails is to insert a sponge beneath the head of your hammer before pullilng.
When it's hammer time make sure you do it right.
June 3, 2006 | Comments ()
